2005 Ford Explorer vs. 1981 Volvo 240
To start off, 2005 Ford Explorer is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volvo 240 would be higher. At 4,015 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 240. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Volvo 240 weights approximately 72 kg more than 2005 Ford Explorer.
Because 2005 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Volvo 240. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Ford Explorer will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2005 Ford Explorer (344 Nm) has 204 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 240. (140 Nm). This means 2005 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ford Explorer | 1981 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Explorer | 240 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4015 cc | 2383 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 344 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 100 mm | 76.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 23.5:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1298 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1820 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 60 L |
